8 young innovators for US science fair

NEW DELHI: Eight budding young scientists will represent India at the Intel International Science Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) to be held at Portland, Oregon in the US during May 9-15 next year.

The national winners of the Intel Science Talent Discovery Fair (STDF) 2003 finals, these school children have been selected on the basis of their work in diverse fields like mathematics, physics, environment and biology, according to a statement issued here Friday.

The Intel STDF is a national science fair aimed at infusing the spirit of discovery in schoolchildren and increasing their interest in science and technology.

This year, for the first time, the fair was held in Hyderabad during December 17-19 at the International Institute of Information Technology.

In the individual categories, Amruth B.R. of Sadvidya Mysore Composite Pre-University College has been selected for his work in physics dealing with wave modulation and its application.

Similarly, Harshini Ramachandran, an environment science student of Bejairaj Sajjanraj Mootha Girls Senior Secondary School of Chennai, was selected for her work in eco-friendly products and application of date palm in bio-manure, cosmetics and health drinks.

Young mathematician Sameer Yeleswarapu of St Francis De Sales High School in Secunderabad was selected for his work on property of right angle triangles.

In the team category, Shriram, Jayraman, Srividya, Swaminathan of Modern English School of Mumbai were selected for their work on paper made without using wood.

The second team includes Zeshan, Sayed, Rishi and Mahavir Patil of Shreerang Vidyalaya at Thane in Maharashtra for their study on the effect of bio-seed dressing on the growth and quality of crop.

"We applaud the tremendous effort put in by all participants and congratulate the winners. We wish them the very best of luck at ISEF 2004 and hope they too, like their predecessors, will make the country proud," said Anjan Ghosh, director public affairs of Intel Technology India Ltd, in a statement.